TENBY GEARS UP FOR 5th ANNUAL IRONMAN WALES

I was walking the streets of Narbeth earlier today and they are already warning everyone to keep the streets clear of cars for all you crazy guys and gals doing the imminent Ironman Wales. I’ve been on holiday in Wales many times and here’s a little hint of what is to come: in ALL my times in Wales I’ve REALLY struggled to find anything flat to cycle on. There’s hills in that there country!!

Rugby Legend Shaun Williams MBE Amongst Line Up

Tenby is set to come alive in just under 2 weeks as over 2,400 athletes representing 30 countries will be taking part in the 5th annual IRONMAN Wales on Sunday 13th September.

IRONKIDS kicks off the weekend’s racing from 3pm – 5pm on Saturday 12th September, which will see over 1000 kids aged 3-14 take part in this fun run in and around Tenby, finishing on The Esplanade.

Then on Sunday 13th September over 2,400 athletes who secured a place in this sell out event, will be taking the plunge on Tenby’s north beach from 7am for a 2.4 mile, 2 lap sea swim. From here they will head off on a 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 marathon run, all to be achieved within 17 hours.

Since its inception in 2011, when 1478 athletes signed up to the challenge, IRONMAN Wales has now grown to become a firm fixture on the European Tour and Pembrokeshire embraces IRONMAN in a style like no other. The race has become renowned for the electric atmosphere that the town of Tenby and Pembrokeshire villages bring with them in support of the athletes.

Despite being one of the toughest on the IRONMAN calendar, which now offers over 120 events globally, IRONMAN Wales attracts not only an impressive 50% first timers, but also an astonishing number of athletes from Pembrokeshire, who relish in the local support. The vibe is inspirational and 238 Pembrokeshire athletes will be taking up the IRONMAN challenge, a 10% increase on last year.

This year, Tenby will once again welcome a whole array of athletes aged 18 – 76 and their reasons for embarking on this ultimate challenge of IRONMAN Wales. From being inspired by watching others, to defying physical issues, or simply just relishing a challenge and raising funds for charity. The glory of crossing the IRONMAN finish line is a goal for all.

At just 18 years old, local Pembroke entries Grant Overend and Lewys Gibby will be the youngest male competitors. Lewys commented, “I have been desperate to take part in IRONMAN Wales since the event came to Tenby. At last this will be the first year that I am old enough to compete.”

Meanwhile the youngest female, Kelly Canones, 19 also from Pembroke, has been inspired to enter for her father fighting with Leukaemia and in support of Macmillan Cancer UK.

Also amongst the line up will be former Rugby Union international and Wales record try scorer Shane Williams MBE, who is hoping to complete the event having recently torn a ligament in his ankle whilst out training. Ahead of next weekend he commented;

“This is the ultimate challenge as far as I’m concerned. I did the London Marathon this year which was tougher than I anticipated so am really hoping that I’ll be able to get through especially after not being able to train the last 3 weeks. I’ve heard the atmosphere is incredible and given it’s a local event for me, was encouraged to take part and am now really looking forward to it, especially to have the support of family – and friends, many of whom are also racing.”

Event organisers and athletes are encouraging as many as possible to come and be part of the weekend’s action, as well as seeing some of the world’s leading triathletes compete, which is free to watch.

With organisers continually looking to enhance the course and athlete experience, this year’s event will see The Park & Ride Service will operate once again but passengers will need to buy a day ticket to use the bus service between Carew, Tenby and Saundersfoot. This follows the huge increase in demand in 2014 and will allow organisers to provide the necessary buses for an efficient service.

Furthermore, essential vehicle access to Tenby will be via A478 and Devonshire Drive between 9am and 4pm this year; the crossing of the bike course at Heatherton will be closed during this period due to avoid the delays experienced last year.

Kevin Stewart, Managing Director IRONMAN, Northern Europe, commented, “IRONMAN Wales has earned its reputation as not only one of the toughest IRONMAN races, but also one that offers athletes the most amazing atmosphere. This couldn’t be achieved without the extensive support throughout the county of Pembrokeshire, together with Welsh Government and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming all of the athletes and spectators for what we hope will be another fantastic event.”

For further information on the event and spectator vantage points please visit www.ironmanwales.com